How to Landscape with Paving Stones
Paving stones can be used to create patios and walkways around the home. They are generally made from concrete or clay and come in a wide variety of colors and sizes. When installed properly, they are stable and will not shift during normal use. Paving stones can be installed by a professional or by a homeowner with the right tools. Before starting a paving stone project, check with local ordinances to ensure that your project will meet any local building codes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Paving stones
- Shovel
- Compacting machine
- Base material
- Edge restraints
- Dry saw
- Sand
- Wide broom
- Sealant
Instructions
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Measure the area to be landscaped. Calculate the area by multiplying the length and width of the area, and add 5 percent to account for paving stones that need to be cut. Purchase the number of paving stones needed to fill the space.
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2
Excavate the ground using a shovel. Dig so that there is enough room to allow base material, sand and paving stones. A depth of 7 inches will allow adequate space.
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3
Compact the ground with a compacting machine. Compacting machines may be rented from home improvement stores. Read instructions before use.
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Spread the base material evenly over the compacted ground. Use a base material such as Class II road base, which is composed of stone and gravel pieces. Compact the base layer. Spread more base material over the first layer and compact it again, until the layer is approximately 4 inches thick.
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Place edge restraints along the edge of the area to keep the paving stones in place. Edge restraints may be concrete, plastic, wood or existing edges of concrete slabs or walls.
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Lay an even 1-inch layer of sand over the base material.
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Place the paving stones into the sand. Cut paving stones with a dry saw for areas along the edge where an entire stone may not fit. Dry saws may be rented from home improvement stores.
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Lay sand over the stones and sweep the area with a wide broom to push the sand in between the paving stones.
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Brush the area thoroughly to remove remaining debris. Seal according to manufacturer's instructions.
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Tips & Warnings
Maintain installed paving stones with frequent sweeping and cleaning.
Read instructions and take caution when using power tools such as dry saws and compacting machines.
